The professional wrestling world has been buzzing lately with rumors surrounding Shane McMahon and a potential jump to All Elite Wrestling (AEW). While the possibility of McMahon stepping into the AEW ring has captured fan imaginations, veteran writer Vince Russo has thrown a new wrinkle into the narrative, suggesting a more audacious move might be in play.
On Sportskeeda Wrestling’s YouTube show, “The Wrestling Outlaws” [^2^], Russo posited that the McMahons, rather than simply bringing Shane McMahon on board as a performer, could be considering a more strategic maneuver: the outright purchase of AEW. This theory, while speculative, adds a layer of intrigue to the ongoing saga.
Fueling the fire of speculation is a recent interview by former Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW) talent Rico Constantino on the “Two Man Power Trip of Wrestling” podcast. Constantino recounted a defining moment in his career when he encountered Shane McMahon during his OVW days. According to Constantino, McMahon bluntly stated that he would only see him as a “flat-backer” or jobber in WWE. This harsh assessment, rather than discouraging Constantino, ignited a deep-seated determination to prove himself.
Interestingly, Constantino’s story sheds light on a larger narrative. The OVW class of 2002, which included Constantino, became a breeding ground for future WWE superstars. Several of his classmates, including names like John Cena, Randy Orton, Brock Lesnar, and Batista, went on to achieve legendary status, capturing multiple world championship reigns throughout their careers [^1^]. This history underscores the unpredictability of professional wrestling and the potential for any talent, regardless of initial assessments, to carve their own path to success.
Whether Shane McMahon ultimately joins AEW, or if the McMahons pursue a more ambitious acquisition strategy, remains to be seen. One thing is certain: the professional wrestling landscape continues to evolve, and rumors surrounding Shane McMahon’s next move are sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats. As we watch this story unfold, it’s worth remembering the talent pool that OVW produced, a testament to the resilience and drive that can propel even the most underestimated wrestlers to superstardom.
